Vice President for Student Experience

Vice President for Student Experience

Capital University seeks an innovative, student-centered, and collaborative leader to serve as the inaugural Vice President for Student Experience (VPSE). Reporting directly to the President and serving as a member of the President's Cabinet, the VPSE will advance the University's mission to transform lives by empowering an inclusive community of learners through engaging academic, co-curricular, and professional experiences.

The Vice President will lead the newly formed Division of the Student Experience, integrating student affairs, student success, retention, and persistence efforts to provide a seamless, holistic student journey from orientation through graduation. The VPSE will serve as Capital's chief advocate for student well-being and belonging - ensuring that every student thrives academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually within a community grounded in Lutheran values and a deep commitment to inclusion and open inquiry.

The University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs to over 2,400 students in the arts, sciences, humanities and professions, including graduate degrees in law, business, clinical mental health and school counseling, divinity and theology, social work, music, and education.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the Division of the Student Experience, aligning innovative, data-forward initiatives with Capital's mission, values, and strategic priorities. The VPSE oversees the following departments / areas :
• Academic success (Tutoring, Supplemental Instruction, Academic Coaching, and the Writing Center)
• Student Success (Student Success Coaching, Early Alerts / Interventions)
• Career Development
• Student & Community Engagement
• Clubs & Organizations
• Leadership Development
• Orientation & Transition Programs
• Parent and Family Programs
• Campus Activities
• Community and Civic Engagement (Cap Cupboard / Cap Closet and America Reads)
• Student Government
• Student Union Activities
• Wellness and Prevention Programs (Certified Peer Educators and The Mezz Fitness Center)
• Fraternity & Sorority Life
• Diversity and Inclusion (Smooth Transition and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Learning)
• Residence & Commuter Life
• ADA / Accessibility Services
• Title IX
• Student Conduct
• Global Education & International Student Support Services
• Center for Health & Wellness
• University Pastor & Religious Life
• Partner with Academic Affairs, Enrollment Management, Athletics, and other divisions to promote a cohesive student experience centered on success, belonging, and purpose.
• Lead campus-wide efforts to drive high-impact, measurable strategies to improve student retention, persistence, and engagement, using data-forward insights and national best practices.
• Serve as a visible, trusted member of the President's Cabinet and a key voice for the student experience in institutional planning and decision-making.

Student Success and Well-Being

Student Life and Engagement

Administrative and Operational Oversight

Collaboration and Partnership

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Applications, nominations, and expressions of interest are encouraged and may be arranged by contacting the search chair, Dr. Darrell Bailey, Director of Athletics and Recreation at Capital University at CapuVPSE@capital.edu . To apply, candidates should prepare a letter of interest addressing the leadership agenda and desired qualities, characteristics, and experiences outlined in this profile prospectus. Current curriculum vitae / resume is also required. All applications must be submitted through Capital's career portal at https : / / capital.applicantpro.com / jobs / . References will be requested later in the search. The position is open until filled, but only applications received by January 13, 2026, will be guaranteed full consideration.

Capital University offers a rich benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement, family education benefits, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance and free parking.

Capital University is an equal opportunity employer. Capital University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, religion, sex, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by the law.

Capital University is currently unable to sponsor employment Visas or consider candidates who will require Visa sponsorship.